The California-based chain is expanding to North Texas with ten new locations and plenty of island flavor
Ono Hawaiian BBQ, the family-owned fast-casual chain known for its Hawaiian-style plate lunches and signature “Aloha” spirit, is expanding into Texas with ten new restaurants currently under construction across North Texas.
Founded in 2002, the California-based brand has grown to more than 115 locations across California and Arizona. Its move into Texas marks a major milestone, the company’s first large-scale expansion beyond the West Coast, with the first restaurant set to open in Plano in early 2026.
Photo: Ono Hawaiian BBQ
A Taste Of Hawaii In North Texas
“Texas offers the perfect opportunity to introduce our fresh, made-to-order Hawaiian comfort food to a community that embraces bold flavors and the joy of gathering around great food,” said Joshua Liang, CEO of Ono Hawaiian BBQ, in an official statement. “We’re passionate about sharing the spirit of Aloha with every plate we serve.”
Each Texas location will feature Ono’s signature fast-casual format with dine-in, takeout and drive-thru service — a convenient model that still centers on freshly prepared, handcrafted meals. Menu highlights include Hawaiian barbecue chicken, Kalua pork, Kalbi short ribs, chicken katsu and spam musubi, all made with proteins marinated in-house and grilled to order.
Where To Find The New Restaurants
Photo: Ono Hawaiian BBQ
The new locations are confirmed for Plano, McKinney, Rowlett, Carrollton, Dallas, Royse City, Hurst, Wylie, Haltom City and Burleson, with construction already underway.
Among the first to debut:
Plano – 8724 Preston Road
McKinney – 4610 W. University Drive, Suite 110
Rowlett – 4510 Lakeview Parkway
Carrollton – 3328 E. Hebron Parkway, Suite 101
Expanding Beyond The West Coast
The move builds on Ono’s growing national recognition. In 2025, the brand ranked No. 179 on Restaurant Business’s Top 500 Chains Report, praised for its strong performance and consistent growth. The company also gained attention for debuting new drive-thru prototypes in Arizona and collaborating with Disney on cultural campaigns tied to Moana 2 and Lilo & Stitch.
Ono’s community-focused initiatives have also earned praise. Its “Spread the Aloha” program has supported wildfire relief in Maui and hosted first responder appreciation events across California, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to giving back as it grows.
Photo: Ono Hawaiian BBQ
What’s Next
As construction continues across North Texas, Ono Hawaiian BBQ plans to open additional restaurants nationwide over the next several years. Its expansion aims to bring the laid-back island energy and comforting flavors of Hawaii to new communities, starting with North Texas.
For updates on grand openings and announcements, visit OnoHawaiianBBQ.com or follow @OnoHawaiianBBQ on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
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